Filter systems, elements and methods with short-range wireless tracking features

ABSTRACT

Aspects herein include filter systems including short-range wireless tracking features to detect insertion and/or removal of filter elements from filter systems. In an embodiment, a filtration system is included having a housing including a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The housing can define an internal volume. A first filter element can be removably disposed within the housing. A short-range wireless communication tag can be associated with the first filter element. A short-range wireless communication reader can be associated with the housing, the reader configured to wirelessly send data to and receive data from the tag when the reader and the tag are at a distance that is less than or equal to a maximum communication distance. Removal of the first filter element from the housing can cause the distance between the tag and the reader to exceed the maximum communication distance. Other embodiments are also included herein.

This application claims the benefit of U.S. Provisional Application No.62/546,246, filed Aug. 16, 2017, the contents of which are hereinincorporated by reference in their entireties.

FIELD

Embodiments herein relate to filter systems including short-rangewireless tracking features. More specifically, embodiments herein relateto filter systems including short-range wireless tracking features thatcan detect actions regarding the filter system such as cover removal,latch actuation, insertion and/or removal of filter elements from filtersystems and the like.

BACKGROUND

Fluid streams often carry particulate material therein. In manyinstances, it is desirable to remove some or all of the particulatematerial from a fluid flow stream. For example, air intake streams toengines for motorized vehicles or power generation equipment, gasstreams directed to gas turbines, and air streams to various combustionfurnaces, often include particulate material therein. The particulatematerial, should it reach the internal workings of the variousmechanisms involved, can cause substantial damage thereto. It istherefore preferred, for such systems, to remove the particulatematerial from the fluid flow upstream of the engine, turbine, furnace orother equipment involved. A variety of air filter or gas filterarrangements have been developed for particulate removal. Beyondparticulate removal, filter systems can also be used as gas phase orliquid phase contaminant removal systems.

Many filter systems include filter elements that must he replaced and/orserviced at intervals in order to assure proper operation.

SUMMARY

Embodiments include filter systems including short-range wirelesstracking features that can detect insertion and/or removal of filterelements from filter systems. In an embodiment, a filtration system isincluded having a housing. The housing can include a fluid inlet and afluid outlet. The housing can define an internal volume. A first filterelement can be configured to be removably disposed within the housing. Ashort-range wireless tag can be associated with the first filterelement. A short-range wireless reader associated with or outside of thehousing, the short-range wireless reader configured to wirelessly senddata to and receive data from the short-range wireless tag when theshort-range wireless reader and the short-range wireless tag are at adistance that is less than or equal to a maximum communication distance.Removal of the first filter element from the housing can cause movementof the short-range wireless tag away from the short-range wirelessreader by an amount that causes the distance between the short-rangewireless tag and the short-range wireless reader to exceed the maximumcommunication distance.

In an embodiment, a filtration system is included having a housing. Thehousing can include a fluid inlet and a fluid outlet. The housing candefine an internal volume. A first filter element can be configured tobe removably disposed within the housing. A short-range wirelesscommunication tag can be associated with the first filter element. Ashort-range wireless communication reader can be associated with, oroutside of, the housing. The reader can be configured to wirelessly senddata to and receive data from the tag when the reader and the tag are ata distance that is less than or equal to a maximum communicationdistance. Removal of the first filter element from the housing can causemovement of the tag away from the reader by an amount that causes thedistance between the tag and the reader to exceed the maximumcommunication distance.

In an embodiment, a method of detecting filter element removal events ina filtration system is included. The method can include inductivelytransmitting power from a short-range wireless communication reader to ashort-range wireless communication tag, the reader associated with oroutside of a filter housing. The filter housing can include a fluidinlet and a fluid outlet. The filter housing can define an internalvolume. The short-range wireless communication tag can be associatedwith a first filter element. The first filter element can be configuredto be removably disposed within the housing. The method can includereceiving a wireless signal produced by the tag with the reader. Themethod can also include detecting occurrences of non-communicationbetween the reader and the tag, wherein an occurrence ofnon-communication following a previous phase of communication isindicative of a filter element removal event.

In an embodiment, a filtration system is included. The filtration systemcan include a spin-on canister filter, a short-range wirelesscommunication tag associated with the spin-on canister filter, a filterhead configured to receive the spin-on canister filter, and ashort-range wireless communication reader associated with the filterhead.

The short-range wireless communication reader can be configured towirelessly send data to, and receive data from, the short-range wirelesscommunication tag when the short-range wireless communication reader andthe short-range wireless communication tag are at a distance that isless than or equal to a maximum communication distance. Removal of thespin-on canister filter from the filter head causes movement of theshort-range wireless communication tag away from the short-rangewireless communication reader by an amount that causes the distancebetween the short-range wireless communication tag and the short-rangewireless communication reader to exceed the maximum communicationdistance.

This summary is an overview of some of the teachings of the presentapplication and is not intended to be an exclusive or exhaustivetreatment of the present subject matter. Further details are found inthe detailed description and appended claims. Other aspects will beapparent to persons skilled in the art upon reading and understandingthe following detailed description and viewing the drawings that form apart thereof, each of which is not to be taken in a limiting sense. Thescope herein is defined by the appended claims and their legalequivalents.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE FIGURES

Aspects may be more completely understood in connection with thefollowing drawings, in which:

FIG. 1 is a schematic view of a filter system data communicationenvironment 100.

FIG. 2 is a schematic view of an embodiment of a system in which filtersystems according to the present disclosure are used.

FIG. 3 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a filter system with aprimary filter element installed therein in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 4 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a filter system with aprimary filter element being removed therefrom in accordance withvarious embodiments herein.

FIG. 5 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a filter system with aprimary filter element and a secondary filter element installed thereinin accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 6 is schematic cross-sectional view is shown of a filter systemwith a primary filter element and a secondary filter element installedtherein in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 7 is an exploded, perspective view is shown of a filter systemincluding a housing and a filter element, constructed according toprinciples of this disclosure.

FIG. 8 shows an end elevational view of the filter system of FIG. 7 inan assembled orientation in accordance with various embodiments herein.

FIG. 9 is shows an end elevational view of the filter system of FIG. 7in an assembled orientation in accordance with various embodimentsherein.

FIG. 10 is a partial cross-sectional view of the filter system of FIG. 7in an assembled orientation in accordance with various embodimentsherein.

FIG. 11 is a schematic exploded perspective view of a filter systemhaving a filter element therein in accordance with various embodimentsherein.

FIG. 12 is a schematic view of a filter system including a housinghaving first housing section and a second housing section.

FIG. 13 is an exploded, perspective view of a filter assembly includinga filter head and a spin-on canister filter in accordance with variousembodiments herein.

FIG. 14 is a schematic cross-sectional view of a filter system with aprimary filter element being removed therefrom in accordance withvarious embodiments herein.

While embodiments are susceptible to various modifications andalternative forms, specifics thereof have been shown by way of exampleand drawings, and will be described in detail. It should be understood,however, that the scope herein is not limited to the particularembodiments described. On the contrary, the intention is to covermodifications, equivalents, and alternatives falling within the spiritand scope herein.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

Embodiments herein can include the use of short-range wirelesscommunication components such as tags and readers placed onto filterelements and the housings into which they fit. The tags and readers canbe arranged such that removal of the filter elements therefrom causesthe tag and the associated reader to be separated by a distance thatexceeds the operating wireless communication distance of the pair. Assuch, removal of the filter elements from the housings into which theyfit can be determined based on sensing an absence in communicationbetween the wireless tag and the associated wireless reader.

Referring now to FIG. 1, a schematic view of a filter system datacommunication environment 100 is shown. A machine 102, such as avehicle, can include an engine control unit 104 (ECU) and a filtersystem 106. The filter system 106 can be for various purposes including,but not limited to, filtering fluids such as incoming air, fuel,lubricating oils, or exhaust gases. In some embodiments, the machine 102includes multiple filter systems. Exemplary filter systems are describedin greater detail below.

In some embodiments, the filter system 106 can be in electroniccommunication with the ECU 104 in either a wired or wireless manner. Insome embodiments, the filter system 106 can emit and/or receive wirelesssignals to or from components that are external to the machine 102 orvehicle, either bypassing the ECU 104 or in parallel with wired orwireless signals exchanged with the ECU 104.

The machine 102 can be within a work environment 116. The workenvironment 116 can represent a geographic area in which the machine 102primarily operates. Depending on the nature of the machine 102, the workenvironment 116 could be quite large (10s to 1000s of square miles) orrelatively small (less than 10 or even 1 square mile). The workenvironment 116 can be, for example, a mining facility, a constructionsite, a shipping or distribution center, a production facility, or thelike. In some embodiments, a gateway or repeater unit 110 can bedisposed within the work environment 116. The gateway or repeater unit110 can, in some embodiments, communicate wireles sly with the machine102 and/or components thereof such as the filter system 106 and/or theECU 104. In some embodiments, the gateway or repeater unit 110 can beconnected to an external data network 122, such as the Internet orvarious private networks. In some embodiments, the data network 122 canbe a packet-switched network. In some embodiments, the gateway orrepeater 110 can also include data network router functionality.

In some embodiments, a server 112 can also be disposed in the workenvironment 116. The server 112 can receive data from the gateway orrepeater unit 110. It will be appreciated, however, that in manyembodiments there may not be a server 112 in the work environment 116.

In some embodiments, wireless signals from one or more of the componentssuch as the machine 102, ECU 104, filter system 106, gateway or repeaterunit 110, can be exchanged with a wireless communication tower 120 (orantenna array), which could be a cellular tower or other wirelesscommunication tower. The wireless communication tower 120 can beconnected to a data network 122, such as the Internet or another type ofpublic or private data network, packet-switched or otherwise.

The data network can provide for one-way or two-way communication withother components that are external to the work environment 116. Forexample, a server 124 or other processing device can receive electronicsignals containing data from one or more components such as the machine102, ECU 104, filter system 106, gateway or repeater unit 110, or thelike. The server 124 can interface with a database 126 to store data. Insome embodiments, the server 124 (or a particular device that is part ofthe server system) can interface with a user device 128, which can allowa user to query data stored in the database 126.

Data produced by the filter system 106 can be of various types. In someembodiments, data produced by the filter system 106 can include dataregarding pressure drop, pressure drop change over time, primary filterremoval events and/or counts of same, secondary filter removal eventsand/or counts of same, primary filter hours of usage, secondary filterhours of usage, primary filter installation dates and times and/orcounts of installation events, secondary filter installation dates andtimes and/or counts of installation events, and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 2, a schematic view is shown of an embodiment of asystem in which filter systems according to the present disclosure areused. In FIG. 2, equipment 232, such as a vehicle, having an engine 233with some defined rated air flow demand, for example at least 50 cfm andup to 1800 cfm, is shown schematically. The equipment 232 may be a bus,an over-the-highway truck, an off-road vehicle, a tractor, a light-dutyor medium duty truck, or a marine application such as a powerboat. Theengine 233 powers the equipment 232, through use of an air and fuelmixture. In FIG. 2, air flow is shown drawn into the engine 233 at anintake region 235. An optional turbo 236 is shown in phantom, asoptionally boosting the air intake into the engine 233. A filter system240 having a filter construction 242 is upstream of the engine 233 andthe turbo 236. In general, in operation, air is drawn in at arrow 244into the filter system 240 and through the filter construction 242.There, particles and contaminants are removed from the air. The cleanedair flows downstream at arrow 246 into the intake 235. From there, theair flows into the engine 233 to power the equipment 232.

Referring now to FIG. 3, a schematic cross-sectional view is shown of afilter system 300 with a primary filter element 320 installed therein inaccordance with various embodiments herein. The filter system 300 caninclude a housing 302 comprising a fluid inlet 310 and a fluid outlet312, the housing defining an internal volume 314. A primary filterelement 320 can be disposed within the internal volume 314 of thehousing 302 and can be configured to be removably disposed therein. Inthe view shown in FIG. 3, the primary filter element 320 is fullyinserted into the housing 302 such that the primary filter element 320is at a position that is close to or contacting the distal end 328 ofthe internal volume 314. At the opposite side of the internal volume 314is the proximal end 330 of the internal volume 314. The proximal end 330of the internal volume 314 is configured to engage with a removablecover 304 that fits adjacent to the proximal end 330 in order to sealoff the proximal end of the housing from the flow of fluid therethrough. The removable cover 304 can engage the proximal end 330 andremain attached thereto through various devices or structures includingthreads, friction-fit mechanisms, latches, buckles, snap-fit mechanisms,or the like.

A short-range wireless communication tag, such as a near-fieldcommunication (NFC) tag 322, can be associated with, such as disposed onor in the primary filter element 320. A short-range wirelesscommunication reader, such as a near-field communication (NFC) reader324, can be disposed in or on the housing 302. The NFC reader 324 can beconfigured to wirelessly send data to and receive data from the NFC tag322 when the NFC reader 324 and the NFC tag 322 are at a distance 326that is less than or equal to a maximum communication distance 346 forthe NFC reader 324 and NFC tag 322.

In various embodiments herein, removal of the primary filter elementfrom the housing causes movement of the tag away from the reader by anamount that causes the distance between the tag and the reader to exceedthe maximum communication distance. Referring now to FIG. 4, a schematiccross-sectional view is shown of a filter system 300 with a primaryfilter element 320 being removed therefrom in accordance with variousembodiments herein. In this view, the cover 304 has been removed fromthe proximal end 330 of the internal volume 314. Further the primaryfilter element 320 has been moved away from the distal end 328 of theinternal volume 314. As such, the NFC reader 324 and the NFC tag 322 arenow disposed at a distance 326 that is greater than or equal to amaximum communication distance 346 for the NFC reader 324 and NFC tag322.

It will be appreciated that embodiments of filter systems herein caninclude more than a single filter element. For example, in someembodiments herein, filter systems can be configured to including aprimary filter element and a secondary filter element. The primaryfilter element can perform most or all of the filtering activity duringnormal operation. However, if the primary filter fails, then thesecondary filter element (or backup filter element) can protect themachine into which the filter system is disposed by filtering the fluidfor a period of time. In some embodiments, primary and secondary filtersare changed at the same frequency. However, in other embodiments,primary filters are changed at a frequency that is greater than thefrequency for changing secondary filters.

Referring now to FIG. 5, a schematic cross-sectional view is shown of afilter system 300 with a primary filter element 320 and a secondaryfilter element 321 installed therein in accordance with variousembodiments herein. The filter system 300 can include a housing 302comprising a fluid inlet 310 and a fluid outlet 312, the housingdefining an internal volume 314. A primary filter element 320 can bedisposed within the internal volume 314 of the housing 302 and can beconfigured to be removably disposed therein. A secondary filter element321 can be disposed within the internal volume 314 of the housing 302and can also be configured to be removably disposed therein, with orwithout simultaneously removing the primary filter element 320.

In the view shown in FIG. 5, the primary filter element 320 andsecondary filter element 321 are fully inserted into the housing 302such that the primary and secondary filter elements 320, 321 are at aposition that is close to or contacting the distal end 328 of theinternal volume 314. At the opposite side of the internal volume 314 isthe proximal end 330 of the internal volume 314. The proximal end 330 ofthe internal volume 314 is configured to engage with a cover 304 thatfits adjacent to the proximal end 330 in order to seal off the proximalend of the housing from the flow of fluid there through.

A first NFC tag 322 can be associated with, such as disposed on or in,the primary filter element 320 and a second NFC tag 323 can beassociated with, such as disposed on or in, the secondary filter element321. An NFC reader 324 can be disposed in or on the housing 302. The NFCreader 324 can be configured to wirelessly send data to and receive datafrom the first NFC tag 322 and the second NFC tag 323 when the NFCreader 324 and the NFC tags 322, 323 are at a distance that is less thanor equal to a maximum communication distance for the NFC reader 324 andNFC tags 322, 323.

It will be appreciated that filter systems herein can take on manydifferent shapes and configurations. Referring now to FIG. 6, aschematic cross-sectional view is shown of a filter system 600 with aprimary filter element 620 and a secondary filter element 621 installedtherein in accordance with various embodiments herein. The filter system600 can include a housing 602 comprising a fluid inlet 610 and a fluidoutlet 612. The housing can define an internal volume 614. The primaryfilter element 620 can be disposed within the internal volume 614 of thehousing 602 and can be configured to be removably disposed therein. Thesecondary filter element 621 can be disposed within the internal volume614 of the housing 602 and can also be configured to be removablydisposed therein. In this embodiment, the primary filter element 620 canbe removed with or without also removing the secondary filter element621.

In the view shown in FIG. 6, the primary filter element 620 andsecondary filter element 621 are both fully inserted into the housing602, but based on the design of the housing 602 are not equally close tothe distal end 628 of the internal volume 614. At the opposite side ofthe internal volume 614 is the proximal end 630 of the internal volume614. The proximal end 630 of the internal volume 614 is configured toengage with a cover 604 that fits adjacent to the proximal end 630 inorder to seal off the proximal end of the housing from the flow of fluidthere through.

A first short-range wireless communication tag 622 can be associatedwith, such as disposed on or in, the primary filter element 620 and asecond short-range wireless communication tag 623 can be associatedwith, such as disposed on or in, the secondary filter element 621. Afirst short-range wireless communication reader 624 and a secondshort-range wireless communication reader 626 can be disposed in or onthe housing 602. The readers 624, 626 can be configured to wirelesslysend data to and receive data from the first tag 622 and the second tag623 when the readers 624, 626 and the tags 622, 623 are at a distancethat is less than or equal to a maximum communication distance for thereaders 624, 626 and tags 622, 623.

As referenced above, many different shapes and configurations for filtersystems are contemplated herein. Referring now to FIG. 7, an exploded,perspective view is shown of a filter system 710 including a housing anda filter element, constructed according to principles of thisdisclosure. The filter system 710 depicted includes a housing 712 and aremovable and replaceable primary filter element 714. In the one shown,the housing 712 includes a housing body 716 and a removable servicecover 718. The cover 718 provides for service access to an interior ofthe housing body 716 for servicing. For a filter system 710 of thegeneral type depicted in FIG. 7, servicing generally involvesdismounting and removing from the housing 712 at least one filterelement, such as filter element 714 depicted, either for refurbishing orreplacement.

The housing 712 depicted includes an outer wall 720 having an end 721,an air inlet 722, and an air outlet 724. For the embodiment depicted,the inlet 722 and the outlet 724 are both in the housing body 716. Inother embodiments, at least one of the inlet 722 or outlet 724 can bepart of the cover 718. In typical use, ambient or unfiltered air entersthe filter system 710 through the inlet 722. Within the filter system710, the air is passed through the filter element 714 to obtain adesirable level of particulate removal. The filtered air then passesoutwardly from the filter system 710 through the outlet 724 and isdirected by appropriate duct work or conduits to an inlet of an airintake for an associated engine, or compressor, or other system.

While FIG. 7 describes a filter element for particulate removal, it willbe appreciated that embodiments herein can also including filter systemsand/or filter elements for removal of gas phase and/or liquid phasecontaminants.

The particular filter system 710 depicted has outer wall 720 defining abarrel shape or generally cylindrical configuration. In this particularconfiguration, the outlet 724 can be described as an axial outletbecause it generally extends in the direction of and circumscribes alongitudinal central axis defined by the filter element 714. The servicecover 718 generally fits over an open end 726 of the housing body 716.In the particular arrangement shown, the cover 718 is secured in placeover the end 726 by latches 728.

FIG. 7 also shows a tag 762 disposed on the first end cap 754 of thefilter element 714. A reader 764 can be mounted on or in the end 721 ofthe housing 712. When the filter element 714 is fully inserted withinthe housing 712, the tag 762 can be close enough to the reader 764 inorder to exchange wireless communications. In some embodiments, thereader 764 can be in electrical communication with a system controller765. The system controller 765 can include various circuitry fortelemetry, storage and/or processing of data (including RAM/ROM and/ordata registers), power storage and/or modulation, and the like. In someembodiments the system controller 765 can include a microprocessor, amicrocontroller, an application specific integrated circuit (ASIC), orthe like. However, in some embodiments elements described above withrespect to the system controller 765 can be integrated into the reader764.

Referring now to FIG. 8, an end elevational view is shown of the filtersystem of FIG. 7 in an assembled orientation. As referenced above, a tagcan be associated with, such as disposed on or in, the first end cap ofthe filter element. A reader 764 can be mounted on or in the end 721 ofthe housing. When the filter element is fully inserted within thehousing, the tag on the filter element can be close enough to the reader764 in order to exchange wireless communications. In some embodiments,the reader 764 can be in electrical communication with a systemcontroller 765.

Many different physical configurations for a reader and/or tags arecontemplated herein. In various embodiments, the reader and/or the tagcan include a loop formed by a conductor that can serve as an antenna.In some embodiments, the shape of the reader and/or tag can be ovoid,circular, polygonal, irregular, or the like. In some embodiments, thereader and/or tag can define a loop with a central aperture. In someembodiments, the reader and/or tag can include multiple antennas ofdifferent sizes along with a switching device to selectively use one ofthe multiple antennas depending on the desired maximum communicationdistance. However, in other embodiments, the reader or tag defines noaperture.

Referring now to FIG. 9, an end elevational view is shown of the filtersystem of FIG. 7 in an assembled orientation, but including a readerhaving a different physical configuration. As referenced above, a tagcan be associated with, such as disposed on or in, the first end cap ofthe filter element. A reader 764 can be mounted on or in the end 721 ofthe housing. When the filter element is fully inserted within thehousing, the tag on the filter element can be close enough to the reader764 in order to exchange wireless communications. In some embodiments,the reader 764 can be in electrical communication with a systemcontroller 765.

However, unlike the reader 764 shown in FIG. 8, the reader 764 in FIG. 9shows forms a loop that is disposed adjacent to an outer perimeter ofthe end 721 of the housing. In this configuration, the cross-sectionalarea encompassed by the reader 764 is relatively large in comparisonwith the total cross-sectional area of the end 721 of the housing.

Referring now to FIG. 10, a partial cross-sectional view of the filtersystem 710 is depicted. In reference now to FIG. 10, it can be seen thatthe body 716 defines an interior 730 of the filter system 710. Withinthe interior 730 for the particular filter system 710 depicted ispositioned the filter element 714, through which air is directed duringuse. In this embodiment, there is also depicted an optional secondary orsafety filter element 732.

Herein, the terms “filter element” or “element” refer to a removable,replaceable component that includes filter media through which the airbeing filtered passes, as the air is directed, from the inlet 722,through the interior 730, to the outlet 724, with the element 714performing an air filtration (or dust removal) function. Unlessotherwise stated, the terms “element”, “filter element”, and “filter”are meant to refer to a removable and replaceable component within thefilter system 710. Preferably, filter elements are configured such thatthey can be removed and replaced by hand, at appropriate serviceintervals.

Herein, the term “primary element” or “primary filter element” generallyrefers to a filter element in which a majority of dust loading occursduring filter system use. In typical systems that have two elements, theprimary element is positioned upstream from the safety element, duringtypical assembly. By “upstream” in this context, it is meant that due tofilter element position, filter system configuration, and the locationof seals during use, air or another fluid generally must pass throughthe primary element before the air passes through the safety elementwhen the air or other fluid moves from the inlet 722 to the outlet 724.

Herein, the term “secondary element” or “safety element” refers to adownstream element from the primary element. Typically, very little dustloading occurs on the safety element and generally occurs only as aresult of either failure of some portion of the primary element orfailure of a seal, or inadvertent dust movement during servicing of theprimary element, or some other mishap.

The safety element 732 depicted in FIG. 10 includes a cylindricalextension of filter media 734 defining an open filter interior 736. Thefilter media 734 extends between an open end cap 738 and a closed endcap 740. The filter media 734 used in the safety element 732 can bepleated media, depth media, felt, or any type of media as determinedappropriate by the designer of the filter system 710.

The safety element 732 is operably installed within the housing 712 toallow it to be sealed and occasionally removed and replaced with a newsafety element 732. A seal 742 is depicted between the safety element732 and the housing 712. While a number of different type of seals couldbe used, in the embodiment shown, the seal 742 depicted is a radial seal744; specifically, an outwardly directed radial seal between the openend cap 738 and an internal wall 746 of the body 716.

In the embodiment shown, the closed end cap 740 of the safety element732 is generally a flat disk 748. In some embodiments, the closed endcap 740 can include a projection that engages a portion of the primaryelement 714. An example of the engagement between the safety element 732and the primary element 714 is shown in U.S. Pat. No. 6,652,614,incorporated by reference herein.

A tubular extension of filter media can extend between the first end cap54 and the second end cap 56. In the embodiment shown, the tubularextension of filter media is cylindrical in shape, and in otherembodiments, could be conical or oval, for example. The tubularextension of filter media defines an open filter interior. In theembodiment shown in FIG. 10, the open filter interior accommodates thesafety element. Many different types of filter media can be used. Insome embodiments, the filter media can be pleated media. The pleatedmedia can be pleated paper or cellulose.

In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, also extending between the first endcap 54 and second end cap 56 can be an inner media support or liner. Theinner liner helps to support the media due to operating pressures andother conditions. The inner liner can be non-metal, or it may also bemetal, such as an expanded metal.

The filter element 714 is releasably sealed to the housing 712 at seal768. There are a variety of techniques for releasably sealing the filterelement 714 to the housing 712. In the embodiment shown, a radial seal770 is formed between the element 714 and the housing 712. Specifically,an internally directed radial seal 770 is formed between the first endcap 754 and the internal wall 746 of the housing body 716.

The second section 792 is part of a pre-cleaner for the filter system710. Specifically, and in reference now to FIG. 10, the filter system710 has a dust ejector 794 as part of the housing 712; in particular, aspart of the cover 718. Air to be filtered enters the housing 712 throughthe inlet 722, and the pre-cleaner 796 helps to separate out large dustparticles and eject them through the dust ejector 794 before they reachthe primary element 714. Specifically, the second section 792 allowsinlet air to circumferentially rotate or swirl around the second section792. This rotation of the air around the second section 792 createscentrifugal forces that cause dust particles to drop to the bottom 798of the housing 712, where they flow through an ejector outlet 703 in thecover 718 and then through an evacuation valve 702.

In the embodiment shown, the cover 718 includes structure to mate withthe second end cap 756 to help laterally support the filter element 714in an operable position in the housing 712 with the radial seal 770 inplace. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 7 the cover 718 includes aprotrusion 776 projecting into the closed recess 708 of the second endcap 756. Preferably, the cover 718 also defines a recess 778 oriented toreceive a projection of the second end cap 756. As can be seen in FIG.10, when the protrusion is received within the closed recess 708, andwhen the projection is received by the recess 778, this will help keepthe filter element 714 in place mounted on the wall 746 with the radialseal 770 in place.

While many of the filter elements and housings shown so far hereindepict cylindrically shaped filter elements and housings configured tofit the same, it will be appreciated that filter elements having manydifferent shapes are contemplated herein. In addition, while embodimentsreferenced above that include secondary or safety filter elements showsuch secondary or safety filter elements fitting within a primary filterelement, many other configurations of filter systems including primaryand secondary filter elements are contemplated herein. References to a“first filter element” can refer to either a primary or a secondaryfilter element as described herein, depending on the context. Similarly,references to a “second filter element” can refer to either a primary ora secondary filter element as described herein, depending on thecontext.

In some embodiments, a latch sensor 788 can be associated with the latch728. The latch sensor 788 can detect with the latch 728 is actuated,such as in the course of removing the cover 718. The latch sensor 788can communicate with other components of the system in either a wired orwireless fashion. In some embodiments, the latch sensor 788 can be inelectronic communication with the controller 765. Various components canbe used to form the latch sensor 788 including, but not limited to,piezoelectric sensors, switch sensors, capacitive sensors, and the like.

Referring now to FIG. 11, a schematic exploded perspective view of afilter system 1060 having a filter element 1000 therewith is depicted.The filter system 1060 can include a housing 1061 having housingsections 1062, 1063 between which axial housing seal arrangement 1002would be positioned, and pinched, during installation. One of thehousing sections 1063 will typically be a filter element receiver, andwill include a receiving trough 1065 therein, into which sealarrangement 1002 is fit during installation. A second housing section1063 would generally include a pressure flange 1064 oriented to applypressure to surface 1014 during installation, helping to ensure thatseal surface 1015 is pressed, to adequately pinch seal member 1012against shelf or seal surface portions of trough 1065 for sealing.Various retention mechanisms such as bolts or over center latches can beused to apply and retain the force.

Still referring to FIG. 11, housing section 1063 includes a seal regionouter perimeter rim 1070, which can surround seal arrangement 1002 andproject therefrom in the same direction as optional handle members 1030,1031, during installation. Filter element 1000 can recess within rim1070.

Still referring to FIG. 11, the housing section 1063 also includes aseal region inner perimeter rim 1071, surrounding by rim 1070 and spacedtherefrom by trough 1072 which includes a seal engagement surface. Rim1071 is optional, but preferred. It will typically be positioned so thata portion of the seal arrangement or member 1012 will be positionedbetween rim 1071 and rim 1070, when the filter element 1000 is propertyinstalled.

A tag 1092 can be associated with, such as disposed on or in, the filterelement 1000. In particular, the tag 1092 can be disposed on or in aside wall 1003 of the filter element 1000 or on or in another componentof the filter element 1000. A reader 1094 can be associated with, suchas mounted on or in, the housing 1061. When the filter element 1000 isfully inserted within the housing 1061, the tag 1092 on the filterelement 1000 can be close enough to the reader 1094 in order to exchangewireless communications. In some embodiments, the reader 1094 can be inelectrical communication with a contact pad 1095 including electricalcontacts 1096. The contact pad 1095 can facilitate connecting the reader1094 with other equipment. In some embodiments, in addition to orinstead of a contact pad, the reader 1094 can be in electricalcommunication with an electrical plug to facilitate connecting thereader 1094 with other equipment.

It is noted that the housing 1062 of FIG. 11 is schematic. The housingcan also have additional features relating to its installation, air flowinlet, air flow outlet, etc. Also, the tag 1092 can be in many differentspecific positions, such as on the inside of filter element 1000 orwithin or between other components of the filter element 1000 or filtersystem.

In FIG. 12, another embodiment of a filter system 1060 is shownschematically, including a housing 1061 having first housing section1062 and second housing section 1063. The housing 1061 includes anairflow inlet 1069 and an airflow outlet 1059. Bolts 1067 secure thehousing sections 1062, 1063 together, and will provide a pinching forceto the seal arrangement 1002.

It is noted that in the depiction of FIG. 12, the inlet 1069 is insection 1062, and the outlet 1059 is in section 1063. In someembodiments, both the inlet 1069 and outlet 1059 can be positioned in asingle housing section, for example section 1063, with the other section1062 operating as a separable access cover and contoured to provide thesealing pressure.

As referenced above, a reader 1094 can be mounted on or in the housing1061. When the filter element is fully inserted within the housing, thetag on the filter element can be close enough to the reader 1094 inorder to exchange wireless communications. In some embodiments, thereader 1094 can be in electrical communication with a contact pad 1095including electrical contacts 1096.

Referring now to FIG. 13, an exploded, perspective view is shown of afilter assembly 1340 including a filter head 1344 and a spin-on canisterfilter 1346. The filter head 1344 is capable of operably receiving bothspin-on canister filter 1346 and a bowl-cartridge filter (not shown). By“operably receiving”, it is meant that the filter head 1344 includesappropriate structure for engaging the spin-on canister filter 1346,such that fluid to be cleaned is directed through the appropriatechannels and cleans the fluid as intended. In reference to FIG. 13, thespin-on canister filter 1346 includes single-use housing 1350 and baffleplate 1352. The housing 1350 defines a filter interior permanentlyholding a non-replaceable cartridge filter (filter element). In someembodiments, the filter head 1344 includes an end face 1345.

The baffle plate 1352 includes a plurality of apertures 1342 to permitfluid flow from the filter head 1344 into the interior volume of thespin-on canister filter 1346.

The filter head 1344 includes a block 1358 including a continuousexterior wall member 1360 forming an outer tube surrounding an internalvolume. The filter head block 1358 can define a first port, which inforward flow systems is an inlet port, and a second port, which inforward flow systems is an outlet port, and an interior or center tube,which is within the internal volume and is circumscribed by the outertube.

In some embodiments, the outside surface 1372 can have first mechanicalconnection structure 1374. The first mechanical connection structure1374 includes many types of arrangements. Of those arrangementspossible, examples include threads, bayonet connections, bead and grooveconnections, etc. In the particular embodiment illustrated, the firstconnection structure 1374 includes a first plurality of threads 1376. Inthis particular embodiment, the first plurality of threads 1376 islocated on the outside surface 1372 of the wall member 1360. However, inother embodiments, the first plurality of threads can be located alongthe inside surface of the wall member 1360.

The spin-on canister filter 1346 can include a second mechanicalconnection structure 1325, which in this case, is depicted as threads1326. The threads 1326 engage the threads 1374.

A short-range wireless communication tag 1322 can be associated with,such as disposed on or in, the spin-on canister filter 1346. Ashort-range wireless communication reader 1324 can be associated with,such as disposed on or in, filter head 1344 or a component thereof suchas the wall member 1360. The reader 1324 can be configured to wirelesslysend data to and receive data from the tag 1322 when the reader 1324 andthe tag 1322 are at a distance that is less than or equal to a maximumcommunication distance for the reader 1324 and tag 1322.

The maximum communication distance between the reader 1324 and the tag1322 can be such that when the spin-on canister filter 1346 is removedfrom the filter head 1344, the maximum distance is exceeded andcommunication between the reader 1324 and the tag 1322 ceases. In someembodiments, the tag 1322 can be disposed away from the center ofrotation of the spin-on canister. In such embodiments, the distancebetween the tag 1322 and the reader 1324 can increase not only as thespin-on canister filter 1346 is moved away during a canister removalprocess, but also the distance can cyclically increase and decreasealong with each rotation of the spin-on canister. In such an embodiment,the rotational position of the spin-on canister filter 1346 with respectto the filter head 1344 affects the distance between the tag 1322 andthe reader 1324 and therefore communication between the tag 1322 and thereader 1324, or the lack thereof, can be used to assess the rotationalposition of the spin-on canister filter 1346 with respect to the filterhead 1344. In some embodiments, if the spin-on canister filter 1346 isnot fully screwed onto the filter head 1344, then the distance betweenthe tag 1322 and the reader 1324 exceeds the maximum communicationdistance between the two. In some embodiments, the tag 1322 and thereader 1324 are positioned such that the spin-on canister filter 1346must be within 30 degrees, 25 degrees, 20 degrees, 15 degrees, 10degrees, 5 degrees, 3 degrees, 2 degrees or 1 degree of full rotationonto the filter head 1344 in order for communication to occur betweenthe tag 1322 and the spin-on canister filter 1346. Further aspects ofspin-on canister filters are described in U.S. Publ. Pat. Appl. No.2004/0079693, the content of which is herein incorporated by reference.

In some embodiments, one or more short-range wireless communication tagsand readers can positioned to allow detection of removal and/orreinstallation of a cover from a housing of a filtration system herein.Referring now to FIG. 14, a schematic cross-sectional view is shown of afilter system 1400 with a primary filter element 320 being removedtherefrom therein in accordance with various embodiments herein. Thefilter system 1400 can include a housing 302 comprising a fluid inlet310 and a fluid outlet 312, the housing defining an internal volume 314.A primary filter element 320 can be configured to be disposed within theinternal volume 314 of the housing 302. The proximal end 330 of theinternal volume 314 is configured to engage with a removable cover 304that fits adjacent to the proximal end 330 in order to seal off theproximal end of the housing from the flow of fluid there through. Theremovable cover 304 can engage the proximal end 330 and remain attachedthereto through various devices or structures including threads,friction-fit mechanisms, latches, buckles, snap-fit mechanisms, or thelike.

A short-range wireless communication tag 1492, can be associated withthe cover 304, such as disposed on or in the cover 304. A short-rangewireless communication reader 1494, can be disposed in or on the housing302, such as on, in, or near the proximal end 330 of the housing 302.The reader 1494 can be configured to wirelessly send data to and receivedata from the tag 1492 when the reader 1494 and the tag 1492 are at adistance that is less than or equal to a maximum communication distancefor the reader 1494 and tag 1492. Removal of the cover 304 from thehousing can cause the distance between the reader 1494 and the tag 1492to exceed the maximum communication distance, causing communicationbetween the reader and the tag to cease. As such, communication, or thelack thereof, between the tag 1492 and the reader 1494 can be used toassess whether the cover 304 is fitted onto the housing 302 or removedfrom the housing 302. Events such as cover removal and/or reinstallationcan be detected and recorded by the system.

Short-Range Wireless Communications

As referenced above, embodiments herein can include the use ofshort-range wireless communication components such as tags and readersplaced on onto filter elements and the housings into which they fit. Thetags and readers can be arranged such that removal of the filterelements therefrom causes the tag and the associated reader to beseparated by a distance that exceeds the operating wirelesscommunication distance of the pair. As such, removal of the filterelements from the housings into which they fit can be determined basedon sensing an absence in communication between the wireless tag and theassociated wireless reader.

The short-range wireless communication components can use variouscommunication standards/protocols and various specific componentconstructions. However, in various embodiments herein, power is providedto the tag component wirelessly. Wireless power transmissiontechnologies use time-varying electric, magnetic, or electromagneticfields. Wireless power transmission techniques mainly fall into twocategories, non-radiative and radiative. In near-field or non-radiativetechniques, power is transferred by magnetic fields using inductivecoupling between coils of wire, or by electric fields using capacitivecoupling between metal electrodes. In various embodiments herein,inductive coupling is used to deliver power to the tag componentwirelessly.

In some embodiments, the short-range wireless communication componentsherein are, specifically, near-field communication (NFC) components.Near-field wireless communication employs electromagnetic inductionbetween two loop antennas when NFC-enabled devices or componentsexchange information. Generally, NFC devices operate within the globallyavailable unlicensed radio frequency ISM band of 13.56 MHz on ISO/IEC18000-3 air interface at rates ranging from 106 to 424 Kbit/s.

NFC devices can operate in various modes, including NFC card emulation,NFC reader/writer, and NFC peer-to-peer. In various embodiments, NFCdevices herein are operating in reader/writer mode, which NFC-enableddevices to read information stored on NFC tags embedded in or disposedon filter elements.

In accordance with various embodiments herein, tags can be passive datastores which can be read, and under some circumstances written to, by adevice, such as a reader device. They typically contain data (in somecases between 96 and 8,192 bytes). In some embodiments the tags areread-only, but in some embodiments they can be rewritable. In someembodiments, a tag in accordance with embodiments herein can include anantenna consisting of a coil of wire and an integrated circuit (IC)which can include memory circuits for data storage. In variousembodiments, the tag can also include a capacitor. The reader typicallyhas its own antenna, which can continuously or intermittently transmit ashort-range radio frequency field.

When the tag is placed within range of the reader, the antenna coil andcapacitor, which form a tuned circuit, absorb and store energy from thefield, resonating like an electrical version of a tuning fork. Thisenergy can be rectified to direct current which powers the integratedcircuit. The integrated circuit can send its data to the antenna coil,which transmits it by radio frequency signals back to the reader unit.However, it will be appreciated that a return signal from the tag to thereader could also come back in various other ways such as light signals(including but not limited to infrared light), electromagnetic signalsother than radio frequency signals, and the like. In some embodiments,the reader can check whether information received (such as an ID number)is correct, and then can perform various functions. In some embodiments,the reader can cause data to be written into the memory of the tag.Since all the energy to power the tag comes from the reader unit, thetag must be close to the reader to function. Therefore, communicationbetween the tag and the reader only has a limited range.

The distance for short-range wireless communication in embodimentsherein can vary. In some embodiments, steps can be taken to purposefullylimit the range of short-range wireless communication including, but notlimited to, varying the size of the antenna coil, limiting the powerassociated with the emission of the radio frequency field, and the like.In some embodiments, the maximum short-range wireless communicationdistance is less than 12, 10, 8, 7, 6, 5, 4, 3, or 2 inches. In someembodiments, the maximum short-range wireless communication distance iswithin a range wherein any of the foregoing can serve as the upper orlower bound of the range. In some embodiments, the maximum short-rangewireless communication distance is less than 30, 25, 20, 18, 16, 14, 12,10, 8 or 6 centimeters.

Wireless Communication Proximity Sensing

As referenced above, steps can be taken to purposefully limit the rangeof short-range wireless communication including, but not limited to,varying the size of the antenna coil, limiting the power associated withthe emission of the radio frequency field or other electromagneticfield, and the like. In some embodiments, proximity of the tag to thereader can be determined by adjusting the maximum range of short-rangewireless communication downward until communication is lost. Forexample, in some embodiments, the reader can include more than oneantenna coil, with the coils of each antenna coil being of a differentsize than one another and therefore offering different maximumshort-range wireless communication ranges. In some embodiments, thedifferent antenna coils of the reader can be energized sequentially andthe distance between the reader and the tag can then be approximated bydetermining the antenna coil at which communication with the tag fails.For example, if a first antenna coil is known to provide wirelesscommunication up to 10 centimeters and a second antenna coil is known toprovide wireless communication up to 8 centimeters, and if communicationusing the second antenna fails but communication using the firstantennal coil is successful, then the distance between the tag and thereader including the coils can be estimated to be between 8 and 10centimeters. In other embodiments, the magnitude of the wireless signalcoming from the tag can be quantified and then distance can be estimatedusing a standard table, which can be empirically determined for theparticular type of filter housing and filter element(s) being used. Insome embodiments, two or more tags can be used on the same element. Thetags can be disposed at different positions, such that distance can beapproximated by seeing which tag or tags are active and which are not.

Communication Patterns

In various embodiments herein, systems can identify a filter elementchange or removal event by detecting a particular pattern ofcommunication. For example, when a filter element including ashort-range wireless tag is properly installed within a filter system,such that the tag is within communication distance of a correspondingshort-range wireless reader disposed on or in the filter system housing,communication can occur between the two components and the existence ofthis successful communication can be recorded by the reader, in somecases along with a time stamp. When a filter element is removed from thehousing for replacement and/or servicing, the distance between the tagand the corresponding reader can exceed the maximum communicationdistance, which can cause the tag to lose power, terminatingcommunication between the tag and the corresponding reader. When afilter element is reinstalled within the filter housing, the distancebetween the tag and the corresponding reader can then be less than themaximum communication distance, which can be sufficient to cause the tagto power-up again and allow communication between the tag and thecorresponding reader to resume.

As such, the pattern of communication in this filter removal andreplacement sequence can be characterized by a first phase of activecommunication, followed by a phase of no communication, followed by asecond phase of active communication (e.g., a pattern of “ON-OFF-ON)”. Aprocessing unit (as part of a system controller, reader, associatedcomponent, external server, etc.) can monitor communications to identifythis pattern (“ON-OFF-ON”) and when it is detected increment a countercorresponding to filter removal/change events along with recording adate and time stamp associated with the identified pattern. The countercan exist in the memory of the reader, the tag, the system controller,or another component that is part of the filtration system or separateand/or remote therefrom.

In some embodiments, in order to ensure that noise or spurious shortduration breaks in communication are not interpreted to benon-communication phases associated with actual filter removal, theprocessing unit can require that the duration of the non-communicationbe longer than a threshold value. For example, in some embodiments, thenon-communication phase must exceed 0.2, 0.5, 1, 2, 5 or 10 seconds inlength.

It will be appreciated that in accordance with various embodimentsherein, patterns other than the “ON-OFF-ON” pattern described above canalso be identified. In some embodiments, patterns can be detectedincluding, but not limited to “ON-OFF”, “OFF-ON”, and simply “OFF”.

In some embodiments, information can be written to a memory circuit thatis part of a short-range wireless communication tag after the systemcontroller identifies an “OFF-ON” pattern in the electrical signalsreceived from the short-range wireless communication reader, wherein theOFF phase of the pattern corresponds to periods of no communicationbetween the short-range wireless communication tag and the short-rangewireless communication reader and the ON phase of the patterncorresponds to periods of communication between the short-range wirelesscommunication tag and the short-range wireless communication reader.

In some embodiments, cover opening or removal events can be detected andrecorded in memory and/or data about the same can be transmitted througha data network and remotely stored. In some embodiments, latch actuationevents can be detected and recorded in memory and/or data about the samecan be transmitted through a data network and remotely stored.

In some embodiments, data regarding detected events, such as filterremoval and/or change events, or detection of any of the patternsdescribed herein, can be written into the memory of the tag associatedwith the filter element(s). In this manner, the filter element can beanalyzed after removal from the system in order to determine how manyevents (such as removal events and/or installation events) it hasexperienced. In some embodiments, processing steps such as analyzingdata for patterns and then determining the occurrence of events based onthe same can occur at the level of the reader, the system controller, oranother component that is part of the filtration system or separateand/or remote therefrom, but outputs therefrom such as a count of thenumber of filter element removal and/or reinstallation events can bewritten into the memory of the tag.

In some embodiments, one or more components of the system can beinterrogated in order to gather information stored by the same. Forexample, as described above, in some embodiments, data such as theaspects described above can be stored within the memory of a tag,reader, controller or the like. The tag, reader, or controller can beinterrogated in order to retrieve data from the same. In someembodiments, a tag with data stored thereon can be interrogated by (andenergized by) a dedicated reading device in order to retrieve data fromthe same. In some embodiments, the system can be queried either locallyor remotely in order to retrieve information from the same. However, insome embodiments the system can be configured to push data such as theaspects described above out through a data network without firstreceiving a query. Such data can be pushed out substantiallycontinuously or periodically.

Aspects have been described with reference to various specific andpreferred embodiments and techniques. However, it should be understoodthat many variations and modifications may be made while remainingwithin the spirit and scope herein. As such, the embodiments describedherein are not intended to be exhaustive or to limit the invention tothe precise forms disclosed in the following detailed description.Rather, the embodiments are chosen and described so that others skilledin the art can appreciate and understand the principles and practices.

It should be noted that, as used in this specification and the appendedclaims, the singular forms “a,” “an,” and “the” include plural referentsunless the content clearly dictates otherwise. Thus, for example,reference to a composition containing “a compound” includes a mixture oftwo or more compounds. It should also be noted that the term “or” isgenerally employed in its sense including “and/or” unless the contentclearly dictates otherwise.

It should also be noted that, as used in this specification and theappended claims, the phrase “configured” describes a system, apparatus,or other structure that is constructed or configured to perform aparticular task or adopt a particular configuration to. The phrase“configured” can be used interchangeably with other similar phrases suchas arranged and configured, constructed and arranged, constructed,manufactured and arranged, and the like.

All publications and patent applications in this specification areindicative of the level of ordinary skill in the art to which thisinvention pertains. All publications and patent applications are hereinincorporated by reference to the same extent as if each individualpublication or patent application was specifically and individuallyindicated by reference.

1. A filtration system comprising: a housing comprising a fluid inletand a fluid outlet, the housing defining an internal volume; a firstfilter element configured to be removably disposed within the housing; ashort-range wireless communication tag associated with the first filterelement; a short-range wireless communication reader associated with thehousing, the reader configured to wirelessly send data to and receivedata from the short-range wireless communication tag when theshort-range wireless communication reader and the short-range wirelesscommunication tag are at a distance that is less than or equal to amaximum communication distance; wherein removal of the first filterelement from the housing causes movement of the short-range wirelesscommunication tag away from the short-range wireless communicationreader by an amount that causes the distance between the short-rangewireless communication tag and the short-range wireless communicationreader to exceed the maximum communication distance.
 2. The filtrationsystem of claim 1, further comprising: a second filter elementconfigured to be removably disposed within the housing; and a secondshort-range wireless communication tag associated with the second filterelement.
 3. The filtration system of claim 2, wherein the first filterelement comprises a cylindrical exterior shape and defines a centralchannel, wherein the second filter element is configured to be disposedwithin the central channel of first filter element.
 4. The filtrationsystem of claim 2, wherein the first filter element comprises an ovalexterior shape and does not define a central channel.
 5. The filtrationsystem of claim 1, wherein the fluid inlet and the fluid outlet arelocated adjacent a first end of the housing.
 6. The filtration system ofclaim 5, the housing defining a removable cover connected to a secondend of the housing, the second end on the opposite side from the firstend of the housing, wherein removal of the cover allows access to anaperture on the housing that is sufficiently large for the first elementto pass through.
 7. The filtration system of claim 6, further comprisinga short-range wireless communication tag associated with the removablecover in order to detect cover removal events.
 8. The filtration systemof claim 7, wherein the short-range wireless communication tag isdisposed on or within the removable cover.
 9. The filtration system ofclaim 7, wherein the short-range wireless communication tag is anear-field communication (NFC) tag.
 10. The filtration system of claim7, the system configured to increment and store a count of detectedcover removal events or reinstallation events.
 11. The filtration systemof claim 5, wherein the short-range wireless communication reader isdisposed adjacent the first end of the housing.
 12. The filtrationsystem of claim 1, wherein the fluid inlet is located adjacent a firstend of the housing, wherein the fluid outlet is located adjacent asecond end of the housing, the first end being disposed on an oppositeside of the housing as the second end.
 13. The filtration system ofclaim 12, the housing defining a removable cover connected to a firstend of the housing, wherein removal of the cover allows access to anaperture on the housing that is sufficiently large for the first elementto pass through.
 14. The filtration system of claim 12, wherein thereader is disposed adjacent the second end of the housing.
 15. Thefiltration system of claim 1, wherein the maximum communication distanceis less than or equal to 8 inches. 16-17. (canceled)
 18. The filtrationsystem of claim 1, further comprising a system controller, the systemcontroller configured to receive electrical signals from the short-rangewireless communication reader, the system controller configured toidentify patterns in the electrical signals received from theshort-range wireless communication reader.
 19. The filtration system ofclaim 18, the system controller configured to identify ON-OFF-ONpatterns in the electrical signals received from the short-rangewireless communication reader; wherein detection of an ON-OFF-ON patternis counted as a filter element removal or a filter reinstallation event;wherein the OFF phase of the pattern corresponds to periods of nocommunication between the short-range wireless communication tag and theshort-range wireless communication reader and the ON phase of thepattern corresponds to periods of communication between the short-rangewireless communication tag and the short-range wireless communicationreader.
 20. The filtration system of claim 19, wherein the OFF phase ofthe ON-OFF-ON pattern has a duration exceeding 0.5 seconds.
 21. Thefiltration system of claim 19, the system configured to increment andstore a count of detected filter element removal or reinstallationevents.
 22. The filtration system of claim 21, the count of detectedfilter element removal or reinstallation events configured to be storedin a memory circuit that is part of the short-range wirelesscommunication tag disposed on the first filter element.
 23. Thefiltration system of claim 18, wherein information is written to amemory circuit that is part of the short-range wireless communicationtag disposed on the first filter element after the system controlleridentifies an OFF-ON pattern in the electrical signals received from theshort-range wireless communication reader, wherein the OFF phase of thepattern corresponds to periods of no communication between theshort-range wireless communication tag and the short-range wirelesscommunication reader and the ON phase of the pattern corresponds toperiods of communication between the short-range wireless communicationtag and the short-range wireless communication reader.
 24. Thefiltration system of claim 1, the system further comprising a latchactuation sensor, the system configured to increment and store a countof latch actuation events.
 25. The filtration system of claim 1, thehousing comprising a side wall and an end wall, wherein the reader isattached to the side wall.
 26. The filtration system of claim 1, thehousing comprising a side wall and an end wall, wherein the reader isattached to the end wall.
 27. The filtration system of claim 26, whereinthe length of the side wall exceeds the maximum communication distance.28. (canceled)
 29. The filtration system of claim 1, wherein theshort-range wireless communication tag is a near-field communication(NFC) tag.
 30. (canceled)
 31. The filtration system of claim 1, whereinthe short-range wireless communication reader is a near-fieldcommunication (NFC) reader. 32-39. (canceled)